STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION OF THE USE OF ICTS/INTERNET FOR LEARNING READING COMPREHENSION IN PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN OBIO/AKPOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF RIVERS STATE

Abstract

The study investigated students’ perception of the use of ICTs/internet in  learning reading comprehension in public secondary schools in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, using a descriptive research design. The instrument adapted for the study is the Students. Perception on ICT/internet Questionnaire (SPIIQ) developed by Pardede (2023), consisting of 23 items. Response on  the questionnaire is based on likert scale of SA, A, D, and SD, of weights 4, 3, 2, & 1 respectively SPIIQ had reliability coefficient of 0.82, deemed adequate for this study based on its construct validity, face validity and coefficient of reliability obtained using test Re-test method and PPMC coefficient  of reliability.  Finding based on the descriptive statistical analysis of  mean  used on students response on questionnaire items indicate that students perceive the  use of ICT/internet as important for reading comprehension;  there is a positive impact on students reading ability when exposed to ICT resources, students perceive that ICT/internet instruction add value to their education. More so, students perceive self-efficacy in reading using ICT/internet. Based on these findings, it is recommended that teachers should make use of ICT resources in teaching reading comprehension in schools, students engagement time in ICT should be channeled towards acquisition of knowledge and ICT skills for educational purposes rather than leisure. Government should be proactive in providing ICT resources for instruction in schools.